Three-time V8 Utes champion Ryal Harris has confirmed that he will enter the new SuperUtes category in a Mazda BT-50.

Harris made the announcement upon the launch of the two completed SuperUte prototypes at the Watpac Townsville 400.

He also confirmed to Speedcafe.com that Peters Motorsport, which currently fields the Gold Coast resident in an FG Falcon in V8 Utes, will begin testing of the BT-50 in approximately six weeks’ time.

The entry will also continue to be backed by Bushranger and long-time sponsor West End Mazda, whose signage has adorned Harris’ Falcon ute as either a major or minor sponsor for the past three years.

“I totally understand why the V8 purists are not excited but let’s face it, when V8 Utes turned up on the grid all those years ago (2001) at Adelaide they weren’t fast but they put on great racing,” said Harris.

“The torque these SuperUtes will produce is awesome and diesels have been racing at Le Mans for years, so I’m keen to give them a crack.”

Harris’ #58 BT-50 was present at Townsville for the unveiling of the first Ford Ranger and Mitsubishi Triton SuperUtes, and while it was wrapped in his racing livery, that example has not yet been fitted with the racing kit.

The 31-year-old nevertheless expressed his anticipation for how the dual cab utility would look and drive in race trim.

“Now I have seen our Bushranger Mazda lowered at race ride height, it looks tough.

“With big brakes and ‘low grip’ tyres they will be tricky to drive and the fans will see plenty of action.”